How to prepare for mathematics

Because of the highly quantitative nature of Carnegie Mellon’s curriculum, your four years of secondary school mathematics should include algebra, geometry, trigonometry, analytic geometry, and elementary functions.

You should be able to demonstrate these skills without a calculator:

graph quadratic functions, ellipses, circles, and hyperbolas

manipulate algebraic expressions, including using rules of exponents

complete the square of a quadratic expression and recognize when completion of the square is appropriate

determine the domain of a function

understand the function concept, including the composition of functions, and recognize the functions from which a given function is composed

determine the intersection of two lines or a line and a quadratic function

determine the equation of a line and understand when lines are parallel or perpendicular in terms of their slopes

solve linear inequalities and quadratic equations including equations that arise in novel circumstances

use properties of logarithmic functions to simplify expressions and solve equations

be familiar with the graphs of logarithmic and exponential functions

know the definitions of the trigonometric functions, be familiar with their graphs and periodicity, be able to evaluate trigonometric functions using standard triangles, and know basic trigonometric identities including the Law of Cosines

know and apply the Pythagorean Theorem

recognize and use proportional relationships, including those derived from similar triangles

use knowledge of basic plane and solid geometric figures to express relationships among them, e.g. when one is inscribed in another

Academic Credit for AP, IB and A-Levels

Advanced Placement (AP)

Carnegie Mellon may grant advanced placement and credit for scores of four and five on exams taken in the CEEB Advanced Placement program. When you take the tests, be sure to request the results to be sent to the Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar Admission Office. We’ll receive your scores in early summer. Once you are admitted, we will evaluate your scores and let you know if AP credit has been awarded. The AP code for Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar is 4246.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

Carnegie Mellon recognizes the quality of the International Baccalaureate curriculum. We may grant advanced standing and/or credit in various fields for scores of six and seven on higher-level examinations. Send the results of IB exams to the Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar Admission Office, and we will evaluate your scores and notify you if credit has been awarded.

British Advanced Level (A-Level) Examinations

Carnegie Mellon Qatar may award university course credit for grades of A or B received in A-Level exam results. An original copy of your A-Level results must be provided to the Academic Affairs Office at Carnegie Mellon Qatar in order for credit to be awarded.

Placement or Credit for College-Level Work

Carnegie Mellon may grant placement or credit for college work you’ve completed while in secondary school. Have your college transcript sent to the Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar Admission Office for transfer credit evaluation. Please send the descriptions of your college courses as well.

A full listing of transferrable credit for AP, IB and A-levels can be accessed here.

Workshops and events

For secondary school students who would like a glimpse into college life, CMU-Q holds workshops in all of the different program areas, as well as events that celebrate academic exploration and achievement.